23rd Annual Conference of Pakistan Cardiac Society (CardioCon 2014)

KARACHI - Cardiovascular Diseases experts have stated that; stress and overweight cases have been rising among children in the society, which increases the risk of developing heart diseases among children in the future.

They shared these views while addressing the three-day 23rd Annual Conference of Pakistan Cardiac Society CardioCon 2014 on the theme: “Creating Heart Healthy Environment”  - which was organized by the Department of Cardiology, Civil Hospital Karachi, in collaboration with Dow University of Heath Sciences, Pakistan Cardiac Society and American College of Cardiology at a local hotel.

Dr Benish of Dow University of Health Science, while addressing the public awareness seminar said; A balanced diet during childhood is necessary for a healthy heart and also prevents children from childhood obesity. She said 21 to 24 percent children are overweight in developed countries like America, while 16 to 18 percent children are living with obesity.

She said junk food, sedentary lifestyle and indoor games are leading causes of the rising cases of obesity and overweight children. She said proper diet plan, daily exercises, healthy environment and balanced diet will help avoid obesity and overweight tendencies among children.    

Senior Cardiologist Dr Kashif Sheikh said; One third population of the world uses tobacco products. Over 15 percent population of Pakistan uses tobacco and it is feared that the number of cases will increased in upcoming 20 years, across the country.

He said consumption of one cigarette can reduce 11 minutes of a person’s life. Influence of companionship, stress, tension, idealism and adventurism are major factors behind the rising trend of smoking among the younger generation.  He said smoking increases the risk of a heart attack about 20 to 30 percent in smokers, as compared non-smokers.
Dr Syeda Saria Bokhari of Aga Khan University Hospital said; 20 percent children are living with high-blood pressure in our country, while 18 to 24 percent are overweight. She said similarly 33 percent adult population of the country is overweight.

Dr Abdul Wahab said; High pressure to achieve success, leads people towards stress, which is one of the major factors behind occurrence of heart problems. He said stress can affect people of every age group. Noisy atmosphere, traffic jam, trend of negative Breaking News on media and excessive use of social media can lead people towards stress.